| Abstract: | A method is described for the routine estimation of oil content and composition in seed crops by determination of the total and component long-chain fatty acids. The oil was transmethylated without prior extraction using 2% H2SO4 in methanol at 80°C and the resultant fatty acid methyl esters separated and measured by gas-liquid chromatography. The method was shown to be applicable to a wide range of samples including field beans, cereals and linseed, and for use with individual seeds or very small samples (e.g. half seeds). Results obtained with this method were highly reproducible, giving good recoveries of oil and individual fatty acids. The method gave values intermediate between those obtained by ether extraction and acid hydrolysis methods. |
